Genevieve Nnaji Net Worth
Genevieve Nnaji stands as one of Nigeria’s most affluent actresses, boasting a remarkable net worth estimated to be around $12 million US dollars.
Her financial success is a testament to her enduring influence and achievements in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Beyond her acting prowess, Genevieve has carved a niche for herself as a director and producer, contributing significantly to the Nigerian film landscape.
Her entrepreneurial ventures and strategic investments have further solidified her status as the wealthiest actress in Nigeria, marking her as a trailblazer and a powerhouse in the realm of African cinema.
Genevieve Nnaji Biography
Genevieve Nnaji, born on May 3, 1979, is a prominent Nigerian actress, producer, and director. She achieved a significant milestone in 2005 by winning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role, becoming the inaugural recipient of this prestigious accolade.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Nollywood, the Nigerian government honored her in 2011 as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Her directorial debut, “Lionheart,” marked a historic moment as Nigeria’s first Netflix film and the initial Nigerian submission for the Oscars.
However, the film faced disqualification due to a predominant use of English in its dialogue. Despite this setback, Genevieve Nnaji remains a trailblazer in the Nigerian film industry.
With a career spanning decades, Genevieve Nnaji garnered further recognition in 2020 when she was featured in two new books by Azuh Arinze, the publisher, and Editor in Chief of Yes International! magazine.
In these publications, she was profiled alongside other celebrities and business executives, solidifying her enduring impact and influence in the entertainment industry.
Early life
Genevieve Nnaji was born in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, and spent her formative years growing up in Lagos. She is the fourth child among eight siblings, raised in the nurturing environment of a middle-class family.
Her father served as an engineer, while her mother worked as a nursery school teacher.
Education
In the initial phases of her career, Genevieve Nnaji encountered challenges securing acting roles in Surulere, the Film Capital of Africa.
To establish herself in the highly competitive industry, she navigated through numerous auditions. Born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, Genevieve is the fourth of eight children. Her father, an engineer, and her mother, a teacher, provided a middle-class upbringing.
Genevieve attended Methodist Girls College, Yaba, and pursued a bachelor’s degree in Creative Arts on a part-time basis at the University of Lagos.
Balancing academics with acting became difficult, leading her to drop out of the university in the late ’90s. Her early exposure to television in Surulere, especially through her elementary school, Kemstar, set the stage for her debut as a child actress at age 8 in the popular Nigerian soap opera “Ripples,” directed by Zeb Ejiro.
Career
Genevieve Nnaji embarked on her acting journey as a child actor in the popular television soap opera “Ripples” at the tender age of 8.
At 19, in 1998, she made her debut in the burgeoning Nigerian film industry with the movie “Most Wanted.” Her early works include notable films like “Last Party,” “Mark of the Beast,” and “Ijele.”
In 2010, she gained acclaim for her role in the award-winning film “Ijé: The Journey,” marking her presence in the Nigerian cinema. Over the years, Genevieve Nnaji has graced the screen in more than 200 Nollywood movies.
Beyond acting, she expanded her artistic endeavors by signing a recording contract with EKB Records in 2004, a Ghanaian record label, and releasing her debut album titled “One Logologo Line,” featuring a blend of R&B, Hip-Hop, and Urban music. Her multifaceted talent was further recognized when she secured the most votes in the search for the face of Lux in 2004.
In 2005, Genevieve Nnaji made history by winning the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actress in a Leading Role, becoming the first actress to achieve this honor.
Renowned for her contributions to Nollywood, she received accolades such as the Best Actress award at the 2001 City People’s Awards and the Censors Board of Nigeria’s recognition in 2003.
Oprah Winfrey dubbed her the “Julia Roberts of Africa” in 2009, highlighting her international acclaim. She continued to break new ground, producing her first movie, “Road to Yesterday,” in November 2015, which later earned the title of Best Movie Overall – West Africa at the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.
Despite rumors of her involvement in Marvel’s Avengers: Infinity War in 2018, which turned out to be a prank, Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial debut, “Lionheart,” was acquired by Netflix in September 2018.
This marked a significant milestone as the first Netflix original film from Nigeria. The movie premiered at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival.
Beyond her contributions to the entertainment industry, Genevieve Nnaji is an advocate for women’s rights. She passionately supports Nigerian girls’ autonomy in choosing their life partners and vehemently opposes early marriages.
A vocal proponent of social justice and feminism, Genevieve believes in empowering women to make their own choices and live life on their terms.
Modelling
Genevieve Nnaji has not only conquered the realm of acting but has also made a mark in the world of modeling. Her portfolio includes prominent commercials for brands such as Pronto (beverage) and Omo detergent.
The year 2004 saw her rise to prominence as the “Face of Lux” in Nigeria, sealing a highly lucrative sponsorship deal.
In a display of her entrepreneurial spirit, Genevieve ventured into the fashion industry in 2008 with the launch of her clothing line, “St. Genevieve.”
What sets this venture apart is its philanthropic angle, as the proceeds from the clothing line are dedicated to charitable causes. This initiative reflects Genevieve Nnaji’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the entertainment industry.
Further solidifying her influence in the world of beauty, she was appointed the official “Face of MUD” in Nigeria in May 2010. This endorsement added another feather to her cap, showcasing her versatility and appeal in various facets of the fashion and beauty industry.
Awards and Nominations
Genevieve Nnaji’s illustrious career in the entertainment industry has earned her numerous accolades and recognitions. She clinched the Best Actress of the Year Award at the 2001 City People Awards, showcasing her early prowess in the field.
In a defining moment, she secured the Best Actress in a Leading Role Award at the prestigious 2005 Africa Movie Academy Awards, marking her as the first actress to claim this honor.
In 2019, Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial venture, “Lionheart,” achieved a historic feat. The movie was chosen by the Nigerian Oscars Selection Committee (NOSC) as Nigeria’s submission to the Best International Feature Film Category for the 2020 Oscars. This groundbreaking selection marked the first-ever Nigerian film submitted to the Oscars.
However, this momentous journey faced an unexpected turn as the Oscar submission for “Lionheart” was revoked due to not meeting the language criteria.
The film predominantly features dialogue in the English language, which, according to Oscar rules since 2006, must have a “Predominantly non-English dialogue track” to be eligible.
This decision prompted a thought-provoking response from Genevieve Nnaji herself. In a tweet exchange with acclaimed filmmaker Ava DuVernay, Nnaji highlighted Nigeria’s linguistic diversity, with over 500 languages spoken.
She emphasized that English, as the official language, was chosen to ensure the film’s accessibility to a broad and diverse audience within the country and beyond.
The controversy sparked a broader discussion on the Oscars’ approach to inclusivity, especially considering Nigeria’s unique linguistic and cultural landscape.
Critics argued that penalizing Nigeria for using English, a language imposed during the colonial era, reflected a lack of nuanced understanding of the country’s intricate cultural dynamics.
In a CNN opinion article by multiculturalism scholar Kovie Biakolo, titled “Nigeria’s Lion Heart Disqualification is Bigger than the Oscars,” the author delves into the complexities of the situation.
Biakolo suggests that the Academy might be overlooking its professed inclusivity by penalizing a former British colony for using the language forced upon its people, contrasting it with the acceptance of movies from former French, Spanish, and Portuguese colonies.
In essence, the disqualification of “Lionheart” from the Oscars stirred debates about the true depth of the Academy’s commitment to embracing diverse cultural narratives, highlighting the challenges faced by countries with complex linguistic histories.
Relocation and Early Struggles
Economic challenges forced Genevieve’s family to move from Surulere to Egbeda when her father lost his job twice. The family faced financial constraints, and Genevieve, along with her siblings, assisted her mother in a trade business while living in cramped conditions.
Pregnancy and Breakthrough
Facing rejection and struggling to convince directors of her talent, Genevieve became pregnant and gave birth to her daughter, Chimebuka Theodora, at 17.
This challenging period fueled her determination to pursue an acting career. Director Elvis Obaseki, who initially rejected her for a role, later offered her a significant fee at the peak of her popularity, but she declined.
Professional Debut and Recognition
Genevieve’s professional acting debut came in 1998 at the age of 19 in Ralph Nwadike’s “Most Wanted,” where she had a cameo role as a news reporter.
In 2001, City People Magazine recognized her as the Best Actress, breaking the tradition of honoring political and corporate figures only.
Nollywood Ban and Music
In 2004, during a ban on big-name actors due to pay demands, Genevieve ventured into music with her album “One Logologo Line.” The ban affected prominent actors, including Genevieve, who had already gained recognition in at least 12 films by that time.
Despite facing criticism and commercial failure, her hit single “No More” from the album became a classic. The album marked Genevieve’s resilience during a challenging phase in her career.
Endorsements
Genevieve Nnaji has established lucrative endorsement deals with prestigious companies, showcasing her influence and popularity.
Notable partnerships include Etisalat, Range Rover Evoque, Omo, Pronto, Amstel Malta, and MUD cosmetics. In 2020, she took on the role of ambassador for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
A 2014 Vanguard study revealed that Genevieve is the wealthiest celebrity in Nigeria solely based on endorsements, outshining notable figures like P-Square, Don Jazzy, D’banj, and Wizkid.
In 2004, Genevieve made history by becoming the Face of Lux, a significant achievement that positioned her alongside iconic figures such as Marilyn Monroe, Patti Boulaye, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Demi Moore, who had all endorsed the beauty soap.
This ambassadorial role earned her a substantial fortune of 20 million naira, equivalent to nearly 60 million naira in today’s hyperinflationary economy.
Fashion
Beyond her accomplishments in music and acting, Genevieve Nnaji has made her mark as a prominent fashion model.
She has graced fashion runways and worked with various clothing giants. In 2008, she ventured into fashion entrepreneurship by launching her clothing line, St. Genevieve. This further showcased her versatility and influence in different domains of the entertainment industry.
Earnings per Movie
Genevieve Nnaji holds the title of the highest-paid Nigerian actress per movie, marking a groundbreaking achievement as the first to earn a seven-figure sum, equivalent to one million naira, for a single movie appearance.
During the peak of her career in the 2000s, she commanded an impressive salary ranging between three and four million naira for each screenplay.
Notably, her starring role in the 2010 global hit “Ije” earned her $25,000 (3.75 million naira), a substantial figure even in today’s economy, equating to nearly 10 million naira.
Marital Status and Relationships
Genevieve Nnaji has chosen not to marry, citing the fear of a failed marriage as a significant deterrent. She emphasizes her desire to stay married, acknowledging the challenges that come with such a commitment.
Genevieve has been involved in various relationships, including a brief romance labeled “a disaster” by actor Okechukwu Joseph and a two-year relationship characterized as “great” by Pat Attah.
The actress has kept details of her personal life private, contributing to rumors and speculations about her romantic associations.
Daughter and Family
In 1999, at the age of 17, Genevieve became a mother to her daughter, Chimebuka Theodora. The pregnancy, discovered in the fourth month, ruled out the possibility of an abortion.
Genevieve revealed that her parents were unaware of her condition until the seventh month. Theodora grew up with foster parents due to the absence of parental support from her alleged father, U.S.-based socialite Dotun Oladipo. Theodora, now married with a child, has found stability in her personal life.
Endorsements and Fashion
Genevieve Nnaji has secured lucrative endorsement deals with prestigious brands such as Etisalat, Range Rover Evoque, Omo, Pronto, Amstel Malta, and MUD cosmetics.
In 2020, she assumed the role of ambassador for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Beyond endorsements, Genevieve has made a mark in the fashion industry, participating in fashion runways and establishing her clothing line, St. Genevieve, in 2008.
Awards and Achievements
Genevieve Nnaji’s accolades include winning the Best Actress in a Leading Role at the first African Movie Academy Awards in 2005, making her the first actress to receive this honor.
She earned additional AMAA awards in 2008 and 2010. Recognized as the “Sexiest Woman” in Nollywood by Vanguard Newspapers in 2008, Genevieve has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the entertainment industry, including being featured in an Oprah Winfrey Show piece in 2009.
The Nigerian government honored her with the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011, and her hometown conferred the Chieftaincy title “Eze Adaemoji of Amuzu Nweafor” upon her.
Notable Relationships and Controversies
Genevieve Nnaji has been linked to various individuals, including former vice president Abubakar Atiku, pop artist D’banj, European actor AJ Cham, and U.S.-based basketball agent Ugochukwu Udezue.
Rumors and controversies surround her alleged feuds, notably with fellow actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde. Despite occasional disputes, both actors collaborated in the film “Ije: The Journey.” Genevieve’s involvement in several rumored relationships and controversies has often captured media attention.
Filmography
Since her debut in 1998, Genevieve has appeared in over 500 films, contributing to the success of notable productions like “30 Days,” “The Mirror Boy,” “Tango With Me,” “Farming,” and “Weekend Getaway.” Her versatile acting skills have made her a prominent figure in the Nollywood film industry.
Controversies and Feminism
In 2004, Genevieve faced criticism after making an inappropriate remark during a visit to Sierra Leone, drawing backlash from the Nigerian public and media.
Genevieve actively champions women’s rights, advocating against girl-child marriage, and proudly identifies as a feminist who embraces her femininity.
Genevieve Nnaji’s journey in the entertainment industry reflects a trailblazing career marked by achievements, controversies, and a commitment to social causes.
